Janelle Salanga
Northern California Reporter

The Central Valley is something that is incredibly personal to me. Having grown up, studied and worked in the valley, I’ve learned that there are stories in every corner of every city here: stories about intergenerational organizing, environmental (in)justice and the labor that feeds much of California, among others.
I see journalism as a tool for record-keeping and nuancing “stereotypical” or “sensational” narratives. I want to see media act less transactionally, meet people where they are and ground my reporting in a deep understanding of regional context. Through being in the valley, which lies at the core of Northern California, I’ve learned a little bit about that context — but I am always learning more, and your stories play a huge role in that.
As CapRadio’s Northern California reporter, I operate from an understanding of the breadth of perspectives here and the societal and structural inequities between the communities within the region. I’m particularly passionate about covering stories about groups of people that have been disempowered by current social structures.
If there’s something I should be covering about Northern California — whether a topic or a specific story — let me know! This region is one we share.
Sacramento City Unified will end current school year on time after extension talks stall
May 19, 2022
Instead of continuing discussions about this year’s extension with the teachers’ union, the district is hoping to add instructional time over two years. It faces a $47 million penalty from the eight days lost during the strike.
Sacramento-area schools seeing rise in COVID-19 cases, but don’t plan to require masks again
May 17, 2022
Despite rising cases, schools are staying away from reinstating mask mandates, instead electing to “strongly recommend” masking and urge students get vaccinated, boosted and tested.
Sacramento City Unified could extend school year a week to avoid state fine following strike
May 10, 2022
The district must make up the lost instructional time by July 1 in order for the district to avoid paying the state over $40 million.
What to know around masks, testing, vaccinations as cases rise again in Sacramento
May 6, 2022
COVID-19 transmission is on the rise in Sacramento County. Here’s what’s still available — regardless of insurance or citizenship status — around testing, vaccinations and potential work leave.
Sacramento Police have a new policy for using military equipment. Here's how to give feedback.
May 2, 2022
Local law enforcement agencies now need to have a policy establishing guidelines for acquisition, funding and reporting any military equipment, due to a new California law passed last year.
Twin Rivers school teacher not fired after district questioned his use of basketball move on student
April 28, 2022
Teacher Jordan McGowan says he was put on leave two days after he played a one-on-one game with a Black student who asked to skip detention to attend basketball tryouts.
Advocates are pushing for a health equity and racial justice fund in California. Here’s what it would do.
April 22, 2022
Advocates introduced the idea for the $100 million fund last year, and are championing it again for the 2022-23 state budget. They say they're optimistic this time around.
Sacramento City Unified formally approves agreements reached with teachers, staff during strike
April 21, 2022
The district voted unanimously to ratify its contracts with the Sacramento City Teachers Association and SEIU Local 1021 at its board meeting Thursday. Those contracts offer employees wage increases and one-time stipends, among other benefits.
Trucker convoy rolls into Sacramento, protesting California COVID-19 bills
April 18, 2022
The convoy, which began its trip in Southern California in late February, is modeled on Canada truckers’ protests against vaccine mandates.
Sacramento city schools’ strike is over, but parents still have a lot on their minds
April 18, 2022
As students return to class after spring break, families are grappling with changing COVID regulations and potential remaining tension between the city school district and teachers and workers.